Keith Voelker

McFarland

Keith Emery Voelker, age 80, passed away at his home on June 28, 2020 from the effects of myasthenia gravis. He was born on July 3, 1939 in Milwaukee, WI to parents Herbert and Elisabeth (Countryman) Voelker. Keith graduated from Washington High School in Milwaukee in 1957 and that is where he met his wife Barbara. Keith continued his education, receiving his BS, MS and PHD degrees from UW-Madison. He married Barbara on September 14, 1963. They celebrated 56 years of marriage until his death.

Keith became a college professor, teaching economics at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI, and then at UW-Oshkosh. He received a Distinguished Teacher Award and directed the honors program while in Oshkosh. He was a dedicated member of the Oshkosh Rotary Club (downtown), serving as secretary, director of student exchange, and president, often repeating Rotary’s motto “service above self”.

He was fortunate in his life, happy to spend time with his family and many friends. His love of music from Beethoven to John Denver, of traveling, of reading and camping enhanced his enjoyment for many years. Highlights are his experiences hosting an AFS exchange student from Norway and volunteering for Marriage Encounter. One constant interest was a strong connection with his church.

He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Judith (T. Christopher) Dee and Sharon (Kevin) Strattan; five grandchildren, (T. Alexander) Alek, Ryan, (William) Liam Dee, Brooke and Brandon Strattan; and 3 nieces and nephews; brother-in-law Richard Hahn (Donna) and sister-in-law Donna Hahn. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Harold L. Hahn and a niece.

The family would like to express their gratitude for people who provided care giving,  especially those at Agrace Hospice Care.

Memorials may be made to Rotary International Foundation.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

5801 Highway 51 McFarland

(608) 838-0655

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com